Event Manager

Job Title: Event Manager Organization: Greater Iowa City, Inc. Overview Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC) is a network of business and community leaders working to support business, invest in strategic initiatives, and advocate for an economically resilient Johnson County. We are seeking an Event Manager to lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of Greater IC’s events portfolio. This role plays a central part in advancing our mission by creating high‑quality, engaging events that connect business and community leaders, elevate regional priorities, and reflect Greater IC’s brand and strategic goals. General Responsibilities Event Strategy & Program Development Develop an annual events strategy and calendar in coordination with Greater IC leadership. Establish clear goals, outcomes, and success metrics for each event. Continuously evaluate and refine events based on feedback, attendance, and organizational priorities. Event Planning & Execution Manage all aspects of event conception through completion. Coordinate logistics including venue selection, catering, audiovisual needs, registration, and on‑site communication with staff. Develop and manage event timelines, run‑of‑show documents, and vendor relationships. Oversee event budgets, ensuring cost‑effective and high‑quality events. Marketing & Communications Coordination Partner with internal staff to promote events and maximize participation. Collaborate on event marketing strategies, messaging, and materials. Support content development for invitations, promotions, and follow‑up communications. Manage sponsorship fulfillment in event promotion and at event. Monitor registration trends and adjust outreach strategies as needed. Stakeholder & Partner Engagement Build and maintain strong relationships with investors, sponsors, community partners, and vendors. Identify and secure event sponsors in coordination with the Director of Investor Relations and manage sponsorship renewals. Compile and share post‑event impact reports for large sponsorships to demonstrate value. Support speaker recruitment and preparation, including business and community leaders. Ensure events reflect and engage the diversity of Johnson County. Data Tracking & Evaluation Track attendance, engagement, sponsorships, and financial performance. Gather participant feedback and analyze results. Prepare summaries and recommendations for leadership to support continuous improvement of events. Administrative & Executive Support Provide administrative and logistical support for Greater IC’s external‑facing engagements, meetings, and organizational initiatives. Prepare presentation materials, agendas, and slide decks for meetings and events across programs. Coordinate meeting logistics, including scheduling, room setup, materials preparation, and attendee communications. Manage catering orders and logistical details for smaller‑scale meetings, investor gatherings, and internal events. Maintain event templates, planning documents, contact lists, and organizational records related to events. Key Event Responsibilities Annual signature events (annual meeting, awards programs, golf outing). Investor celebration events (e.g., ribbon cuttings, groundbreaking ceremonies). Educational and advocacy‑focused gatherings (e.g., legislative forums, Build Johnson County event). Community Leadership Program (CLP) – logistical support only. Develop new event concepts that respond to emerging opportunities and community needs. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, hospitality, business, event management, or a related field. 2–5+ years of experience in event planning, program management, or related roles. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously. Strong project‑management skills, including budgeting and timeline management. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience working with business leaders, sponsors, and community stakeholders. Ability to think strategically while executing details at a high level. Commitment to inclusive programming. Proficiency with graphic design (Canva), social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and CRM systems preferred. Position Details This is an exempt, full‑time, benefit‑eligible position. Work is performed in person at the Greater Iowa City, Inc. office at the MERGE co‑working location in downtown Iowa City, 136 S Dubuque St. Work hours are primarily Monday–Friday during standard business hours but may require occasional early morning, evening, and weekend hours to support events. A valid driver’s license and access to transportation is required. Compensation is between $50,000 and $60,000 and/or commensurate with experience. Greater Iowa City, Inc. provides competitive benefits including health/dental insurance, short‑term/long‑term/life insurance; retirement plan; PTO and paid holidays; and cell/vehicle/wellness reimbursement plan. Greater Iowa City, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr